Each cell type in the human body is defined by its activation of a unique combination of genes that endow each cell type with specific properties. The activation of these genes is achieved by special proteins known as transcription factors. These “switches” are responsible for turning on appropriate genes in one cell type and preventing inappropriate genes from being activated. In recent years, investigators have identified a number of these transcription factors that lead to the formation of hair cells in the inner ear. The goal of this project is to rigorously test the extent to which a cocktail of transcription factors is able to reprogram supporting cells of the inner ear to turn into hair cells.